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LOARTIERLY
Senior Division
FOURTH QUARTER, 1949
Number 218
Thirteenth Sabbath Offering, December 31, 1949
SOUTH AMERICAN DIVISION
INDIVIDUAL SABBATH SCHOOL OFFERING GOAL
—
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"As God hash prospered him"
MY WEEKLY GOAL (Check Amount)
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"God loveth a cheerful giver"
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DAILY LESSON STUDY PLEDGE
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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 218, October-December, 1949. 10 cents a single
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Copyright 1949, by Pacific Press Publishing Association.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
STUDIES IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION
Lesson 1, for October 1, 1949
The Age-Long Conflict Between Christ and Satan
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Rev. 12:1-17.
MEMORY VERSE: "The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make
war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the
testimony of Jesus Christ." Rev. 12:17.
STUDY HELPS: "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 549-
559; "Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 269-277; "The Story of the Seer of Patmos,"
pages 209-223.
AIM: To prove Satan's defeat and the fulfillment of God's purpose to give every
son and daughter of Adam an opportunity to be saved from sin.
The Gospel Church and the "Man-Child"
1.
After the vision of the temple in heaven, what scene next ap-
peared upon the prophetic screen? Rev. 12:1.
NoTE.—In the Scriptures the symbol of a pure woman is chosen to repre-
sent the true church (2 Cor. 11:2) ; while that of r, corrupt woman is em-
ployed to personate an apostate church (Ezek. 23:2-4; Rev. 17:3-6).
"It is the closing of one era, the age of types and shadows, which, like
the moon, reflect the light of the true. The moon is undci the feet of the
church, and the glorious sunrising of a new day is ushered in. The paler
light of the moon seems dim in that more glorious day. . . . Around the
head of the church clustered twelve stars, representing the twelve apostles,
who became the fathers of the Christian church."—The
Story of the Seer
of Patmos,
page 213.
2.
To what period in the history of the church does this feature
of the prophecy refer? Rev. 12:2.
ANSWER:
To the time or period in which Christ was born in Bethlehem.
Luke 2:1-7. Compare Isaiah 9:6.
The Red Dragon, His Apostasy and Warfare
3.
What other great actor in the struggle is now presented to
us?
Rev. 12:3, 4.
NOTE.—"The
dragon is said to be Satan; he it was that moved upon
Herod to put the Saviour to death. But the chief agent of Satan in making
war upon Christ and His people during the first centuries of the Christian
[3
]
Era, was the Roman Empire, in which paganism was the prevailing religion.
Thus while the dragon, primarily, represents Satan, it is, in a secondary sense,
a symbol of pagan Rome."—The
Great Controversy,
page 438.
4.
In this prophecy how is the "man-child" further identified?
Rev. 12:5; compare Ps. 2:7-9.
5.
In what graphic language does the prophet describe the
controversy between Christ and Satan? Rev. 12:7, 8.
NOTE—This refers to the original conflict in heaven; Michael (Christ) led
the forces of loyal angels against the dragon (Satan) and his rebellious host.
A comparison of Jude 9 with 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and John 5:28, 29
reveals that Michael is Christ.
6.
What was the outcome of this encounter between the forces
of good and evil? Rev. 12:9.
Satan's Second Downfall
•
7.
What divine plan for man's rescue was set
in
operation
in
this time of crisis? Rev. 12:10, first part.
8.
As a result of Christ's victorious earthly mission, what defeat
was suffered by "the accuser of our brethren"? Rev. 12:10, last part.
NoTE.—For the second time, Satan was "cast down." He "saw that his
disguise was torn away. . . . By shedding the blood of the Son of God, he had
uprooted himself from the sympathies of the heavenly beings. Henceforth his
work was restricted. Whatever attitude he might assume, he could no longer
await the angels as they came from the heavenly courts, and before them
accuse Christ's brethren of being clothed with the garments of blackness and
the defilement of sin. The last link of sympathy between Satan and the
heavenly world was broken."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 761.
9.
Just prior to our Lord's triumphant death upon Calvary what
important pronouncement did He make regarding "the prince of
this world"? John 12:31-33.
NorE.—"The cross of Calvary, while it declares the law immutable, pro-
claims to the universe that the wages of sin is death. In the Saviour's expiring
cry, 'It is finished,' the death knell of Satan was rung. The great controversy
which had been so long in progress was then decided, and the final eradication
of evil was made certain."—The
Great Controversy,
page 503.
10.
What spirit of consecration and loyalty characterizes Christ's
disciples as they view the supreme love and sacrifice of the Master?
Rev. 12:11. Compare 2 Cor. 5:14.
[
4]
Satan's Crusade of Despair
11.
Realizing that he is a vanquished foe, what desperate efforts
are put forth by Satan? Rev. 12:12.
12.
Against whom is this satanic fury especially directed? Rev.
•
12:13, 14. Compare verses 6, 15.
NOTE.—"A time, and times, and half a time" and the period of "a thousand,
two hundred and threescore days') are seen to be identical. These are prophetic
days, and represent 1260 literal years—the long, dark period of Rome's
supremacy.
13.
How would the "earth" co-operate in defending and pro-
tecting the church in the wilderness? Rev. 12:16.
NorE.—By means of the Protestant Reformation, by the destruction of
the Spanish Armada, by the support of powerful kings and princes, by the
opening of the New World as a home to the persecuted, and by numerous
other means, "the earth helped the woman."
14.
In the coming conflict what crisis faces the remnant church?
Rev. 12:17.
Lesson
2, for October 8, 1949
The Era of Papal Supremacy
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Rev. 13:1-10, 18.
MEMORY VERSE: "All that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose
names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the
world." Rev. 13:8.
STUDY HELPS: "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 561-571;
"Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 279-283; "The Story of the Seer of Patmos,"
pages 224-234.
AIM: To trace the prophetic and historical outlines and characteristics of that
mighty religious empire represented by the leopard beast of Revelation 13, to which
the dragon gave "his power, and his seat, and great authority."
Legacies Inherited by the Leopard Beast
1.
What were the characteristic features of the beast which John
saw rising out of the sea? Rev. 13:1.
NOTE.—In
the figurative language of prophecy "a beast" represents a
nation, or power (Dan. 7:17, 23) ; while the sea is a symbol of "peoples, and
multitudes, and nations, and tongues" (Rev. 17:15).
The ten horns identify this beast with the "red dragon" of Revelation 12.
They both primarily symbolize Satan
(The Great Controversy,
page 438),
and secondarily his visible representatives. As the dragon especially symbol-
ized the pagan period, so the leopardlike beast features papal Rome.
[
51
2.
How is the composite nature of this beast indicated? Rev.
13:2, first part.
NorE.—In the prophecy of Daniel 7 a lion symbolized Babylon, a bear
represented Medo-Persia, and a leopard prefigured Greece.
Accordingly this leopard beast is seen to have "the mouth of a lion," or
the idolatrous religious system of Babylon; "the feet of a bear," or the in-'
flexible cruelty and tyranny of Medo-Persia (See Dan. 6:8, 15) ; and the
body of "a leopard," or the pagan culture and heathen philosophy of Greece
as represented by the evolutionary concepts of Plato and the methods of
Aristotle. History points to papal Rome as the heir and successor who in-
herited these legacies and characteristics.
3.
What imperial controls were to be bequeathed by the dragon
to the leopard beast? Rev. 13:2, last part.
NorE.—"When the Roman Empire became Christian, . . the emperor
left Rome to the Pope, to be the seat of the authority of the Vicar of Christ."
—Francis P. C. Hays (R.C.),
Papal Rights and Privileges,
pages 13, 14.
"The removal of the capital of the empire from Rome to Constantinople
in fik.n.1 330 left the Western Church practically free from imperial power.
. . . The Bishop of Rome, in the seat of the Caesars, was now the greatest
man in the West."—Alexander C. Flick,
The Rise of the Medieval Church,
page 168.
The Nature and Work of This Power
4.
As revealed in vision, what form of speech proceeded from
the mouth of the beast? Rev. 13:5, 6.
NorE.—From among many papal utterances, the following are representa-
tive:
"We hold upon this earth the place of God Almighty."—Pope Leo XIII,
The Great Encyclical Letters of Leo XIII,
page 304.
"The Pope is of so great dignity and so exalted that he is not a mere
man, but as it were God, and the vicar of
God."—Ferraris's Ecclesiastical
Dictionary
(R.C.), art. "Pope."
In speaking of "the Sacrifice of the Mass," it is stated: "The priest may,
in a certain manner, be called the creator of the Creator."—St. Alphonsus
Liguori (R.C.),
Dignity and Duties of the Priest,
pages 32, 33.
5.
What far-reaching power would the beast assume? Rev. 13:7.
NorE.—By universal edict in A.D. 533 Et
-
nperor Justinian acclaimed the
pope of Rome as "head over all the churches," and "corrector of heretics."
An official organ of the Catholic Church has stated:
"Protestants were persecuted in France and Spain with the full approval
of the church authorities. We have always defended the persecution of the
Huguenots, and the Spanish Inquisition."—Western
Watchman,
Dec. 24, 1908.
6.
By such means how universal would the supremacy of papal
power become? Rev. 13:8.
[6
]
3.
What safeguards were placed in the fundamental law of the
United States?
ANSWER:
The First Amendment to the American Constitution states:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or
prohibiting the free exercise thereof." Article VI of that same honored docu-
ment declares: "No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to
any office or public trust under the United States."
4.
As the United States became "a beacon to all mankind,"
what weighty and sacred trust was committed to its people?
ANSWER:
The distinguished Edward Everett once stated: "To no people,
since the world began, was such an amount of blessings and privileges ever
given in trust. No people was ever so eminently made the guardians of their
own rights; and if this great experiment of rational liberty should here be
permitted to fail, I know not where nor when among the sons of Adam it
will ever be
resumed."—Orations and Speeches, vol.
1, p. 609.
Civil and Religious Principles Repudiated
5.
In the prophetic outline what change is indicated
in
the
attitude of the United States? Rev. 13:11, last clause.
NOTE.—In the book of Revelation there are approximately a score of
references to Christ as the Lamb. The dragon is identified in Revelation
12:9 as the devil and Satan. Through the dragon of chapter 12, and the
leopardlike beast of this chapter, Satan has violently persecuted the saints.
This transition from the lamblike features to the dragonlike utterance truly
indicates a tragic change.
6.
What exhibition of a merciless, persecuting power is fore-
cast by the prophet? Rev. 13:12.
NoTE.—According to this prophecy, the United States, founded on Prot-
estant principles, established as a sanctuary for the persecuted and oppressed,
will repudiate its safeguards of liberty, oppress religious minorities, and
become falsely Protestant.
7.
Through what agency will multitudes be deceived? Rev.
13:13, 14, first part.
NoTE.—"Through the agency of Spiritualism, miracles will be wrought,
the sick will be healed, and many undeniable wonders will be performed."
"The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their
hands across the gulf to grasp the hand of Spiritualism; they will reach over
the abyss to clasp hands with the Roman power; and under the influence
of this threefold union, this country will follow in the steps of Rome in
trampling on the rights of conscience."—The
Great Controversy,
page 588.
[
9]
An Image to the Beast
8.
What likeness to the papacy will be reproduced? Rev. 13:14,
last part.
Num.—The dominant characteristic of the "first beast" was a union of
church and state, with the church in control. "An image to the beast" would
be another union of church and state, with the church in the ascendancy.
"In the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches
would themselves form an image to the beast; hence the enforcement of Sun-
daykeeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the worship
of the beast and his image."—The
Great Controversy,
page 449.
9.
What measures will be adopted to compel the conscience
and require false worship? Rev. 13:16, 17.
NOTE.—In a later lesson it will be shown that "the mark of the beast" is
the acceptance of a false sabbath in place of the true. In the coming conflict
:`those who honor the Bible Sabbath will be denounced as enemies of law
and order, as breaking down the moral restraints of society, causing anarchy
and corruption, and calling down the judgments of God upon the earth. Their
conscientious scruples will be pronounced obstinacy, stubbornness, and con-
tempt of authority. They will be accused of disaffection toward the govern-
ment. . . . In legislative halls and courts of justice, commandment keepers
will be misrepresented, and condemned. A false coloring will be given to
their words; the worst construction will be put upon their motives."—The
Great Controversy,
page 592.
10.
What penalty will finally be pronounced upon those who
resolutely remain loyal to God? Rev. 13:15.
NOTE.—"The decree will go forth that they must disregard the Sabbath
of the fourth commandment, and honor the first day, or lose their lives."—
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1,
pp. 353, 354.
Read
Early Writings,
pages 282, 283.
Christian Loyalty
11.
Concerning the Christian's relationship to earthly govern-
ments, what principle did Christ enunciate? Matt. 22:21.
12.
In the crisis hour, what decision will be made by every
loyal Christian? Acts 4:19; 5:29.
Nom.—"It is often the case that trouble is greater
in
anticipation than in
reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presenta-
tion cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. In that time of trial, every
soul must stand for himself before God."—The
Great Controversy,
page 622.
[10
]
13. To all who would obtain the assurance of final victory, what
divine counsel is given? Eph. 6:13.
NOTE.—"Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures,
and who have received the love of the truth, will be shielded from the power-
ful delusion that takes the world captive."—The
Great Controversy,
page 625.
Lesson
4, for October 22, 1949
The First Angel's Message
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Rev. 10:1-11.
MEMORY VERSE: "In the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall
begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as He hath declared to His
servants the prophets." Rev. 10:7.
STUDY HELPS: "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 519-529;
"Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 261-267; "The Story of the Seer of Patmos,"
pages 180-190.
AIM: To understand more fully the secret of the "little book," now open, and the
mystery of redemption which is to be finished under the sounding of the seventh
trumpet.
A Parenthetical Prophecy
1.
Between the sounding of the sixth and seventh trumpets, what
did the seer of Patmos behold? Rev. 10:1, first part.
NoTE.—Since the period of the sixth trumpet closed in 1840, and the
sounding of the seventh trumpet began in 1844, the message of Revelation
10 should find its fulfillment just prior to that event.
2.
Describe the appearance of the celestial messenger. Rev. 10:1,
last part.
An Open Book With a Universal Message
3.
What was held in the hand of the angel? Rev. 10:2, first part.
4.
What book of the Old Testament Scriptures was closed and
sealed? Until what time? Dan. 12:4.
NoTE.—"There is no book spoken of as closed and sealed except the book
of Daniel's prophecy, and there is no account of the opening of that book
unless it be here in Revelation
10."—The Prophecies of Daniel and the Rev-
elation,
pages 519, 520.
5.
Where did the angel place his feet? Rev. 10:2, last part.
[ 11 ]
6.
In what forceful manner did he present his message? Rev.
10:3, first part.
7.
What part of the vision was John restrained from writing?
Rev. 10:3, 4.
Forecast of Momentous Events
8.
In whose name did the angel testify? What vital announce-
ment did he make? Rev. 10:5, 6.
Nom—The ending of the 2300-year prophecy in 1844 marks the end-
ing of
prophetic
time. No time prophecies are to be found in the Scriptures
that extend beyond that date.
9.
Under the sounding of the seventh trumpet what mighty task
is to be finished? Rev. 10:7.
NorE.—The "mystery of God" is the gospel. Eph. 3:3-6; Col. 1:26, 27.
As the seventh trumpet began to sound, our great High Priest commenced
His final service in the heavenly sanctuary.
Eating the Little Book
10.
What was the prophet instructed to do? Rev. 10:8.
11.
What further charge was given by the angel? Rev. 10:9,
Compare Jer. 15:16.
12.
According to the prophetic outline what grievous effect
would be produced by eating the little book? Rev. 10:10.
13.
In the experience of the believers during the year 1844 how
was the prediction fulfilled?
ANSWER:
"The disciples, weeping at the tomb over a crucified Saviour,
seemed to drain the cup of bitterness, but a potion no less galling was drunk
by the disciples in 1844. 'We thought that it was He that would save Israel,'
was echoed eighteen hundred years later in the words, 'We looked for Him
to save us, but He has not come.'
"—The Story of the Seer of Patmos,
page
189.
"Their mistake was in their misunderstanding of the
event
to take place at
the end of this prophetic period, and not in their reckoning of the
time."—
The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation,
page 528.
A World-Wide Commission
14.
Following the bitter disappointment what further task was
_assigned to God's people? Rev. 10:11.
[12]
Lesson 5, for October 29, 1949
The First Angel's Message (Continued)
.LESSON SCRIPTURES: Rev. 14:6, 7; Matt. 25:1-13.
MEMORY VERSE: "I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the
everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and
kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory
to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven,
and earth, and
the
sea, and the fountains of waters." Rev. 14:6, 7.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 355-374 (new ed., pp. 407-427);
"The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 628-643.
AIM: To compare the message proclaimed by the angel of Revelation 10 and the
message of the first angel of Revelation 14; also to study the rise of a
world-wide
movement, which arose in specific fulfillment of these prophecies.
A
Definite Message for Our Day
1.
Repeat the first angel's message. Rev. 14:6,
7.
2.
Comparing the angel of Revelation 10 with the first angel
of Revelation 14, what similar features are observed?
Angel of Chapter 10
(a)
"Down from heaven." Rev. 10:1.
(b)
A message concerning "The mys-
stery of God"—the gospel. Verse 7;
Col. 1:25-27.
(c)
A message to go by land and sea.
Verse 2.
(d)
Proclaimed "with a loud voice."
Verse 3.
(e)
Hand raised to heaven in rev-
erence of the living God. Verses 5, 6.
(f)
"There should be time no
longer." Verse 6.
(g)
In the name of Him who cre-
ated all things. Verse 6.
(h)
"Thou must prophesy again be-
fore many peoples." Verse 11.
Angel of Chapter 14
"In the midst of heaven," Rev. 14:6.
Bearing "the everlasting gospel."
Verse 6.
"To every nation, and kindred, and
tongue, and people." Verse 6.
Proclaimed "with
a
loud voice."
Verse 7.
"Fear God." Verse 7.
"The hour of His judgment is come."
Verse 7.
"Worship Him," the Creator of all.
Verse 7.
Followed by the second and third
angels' messages.
3.
Mention some of the definite statements of Scripture con-
cerning the judgment. Dan. 7:9, 10; Acts 17:31; 24:25; 2 Cor. 5:10.
The Cleansing of the Sanctuary and the
Judgment Hour Proclamation
4.
What prophecy foretells the time of the
cleansing of the
sanctuary, or the investigative judgment? Dan.
8:14.
[13 ]
NoTE.—Commencing with the command "to restore and rebuild Jerusa-
lem" (457 B.c. See Dan. 9:25) it extended to the autumn of
AD.
1844. That
was the year of the crushing disappointment to thousands of advent believers.
Further study revealed that the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 and the first angel's
message "pointed to Christ's ministration in the most holy place, to the in-
vestigative judgment, and not to the coming of Christ for the redemption' of
His people and the destruction of the wicked. . . . At the very time when
they were lamenting the failure of their hopes, the event had taken place
which was foretold by the message, and which must be fulfilled before the
Lord could appear to give reward to His servants."—The
Great Controversy,
page 424.
5.
For how long a period is the first angel's message to. be pro-
claimed? Matt. 24:14.
NOTE.—"The announcement, 'The hour of His judgment is come,' points
to the closing work of Christ's ministration for the salvation of men. It
heralds a truth which must be proclaimed until the Saviour's intercession shall
cease, and He shall return to the earth to take His people to Himself."—The
Great Controversy,
pages 435, 436.
6.
What was the divine purpose in the heralding of this message
to the world? Luke 1:17.
NoTE.—"As a prophet, John was 'to turn the hearts of the fathers to
the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready
a people prepared for the Lord' In preparing the way for Christ's first
advent, he was a representative of those who are to prepare a people for
our Lord's second coming."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 101.
The First Angel's Message and the Parable of the Virgins
7.
Narrate the parable of the ten virgins. Matt. 25:1-13.
8.
What is symbolized by the expression, "while the bridegroom
tarried"? Matt. 25:5.
NoTE.—"By the tarrying of the bridegroom is represented the passing of
the time when the Lord was expected, the disappointment, and the seeming
delay. In this time of uncertainty, the interest of the superficial and half-
hearted soon began to waver, and their efforts to relax; but those whose faith
was based on a personal knowledge of the Bible, had a rock beneath their
feet, which the waves of disappointment could not wash
away."—The Great
Controversy,
page 394.
9.
In what way did the "midnight cry" and the experience of
the two classes of virgins find their fulfillment? Matt. 25:6-12.
NoTE.—"In the summer of 1844, midway between the time when it had
been first thought that the 2300 days would end, and the autumn of the same
year, to which it was afterward found that they extended, the message was
[14]
NoTE.—C. J. Ellicott says: "Man calls his projected city Bab-el,
the gate
—that is, the court—of
God;
God calls it Babble; for in all languages indis-
tinct and confused speech is represented by the action of the lips in producing
the sound of
b.
The exact Hebrew word for this was
balbal."—An Old Testa-
ment Commentary for English Readers,
page 54.
"Other derivations suggested are
Bab-Bel,
the gate or court of Belus
(Eichhorn, Lange), an explanation of the term which Fiirst thinks not im-
possible, and Kalisch declares 'can scarcely be overlooked;' and
Bab-il,
the
gate of God (Rosenmiiller, Gesenius, Colenso.)"—Spence and Excell,
The
Pulpit Commentary,
"Genesis," pages 165, 166.
It was man's purpose to erect a famous tower to "reach unto heaven;"
but God frustrated their impious plans. Their "Bab-il," "gate to heaven,"
became "Babble," confusion, the monument to their folly. Man's "way to
God" developed into chaos; and the word Babylon, which originally signi-
fied that which is lofty, became a synonym for confusion of tongues, con-
fusion of plans, and confusion in religion.
The Golden City and Her Downfall
3.
To what dizzy heights did Babylon at length attain? Isa. 13:
19, first part. See Jer. 50:23.
4.
In the realm of religion what position was held by ancient
Babylon? Jer. 51:7; 50:2,' 38.
5.
What call was issued to God's ancient people who were cap-
tives in Babylon? Jer. 51:6, 45.
6.
How tragic and complete was the fall of that ancient city
and empire? Jer. 50:46; 51:37, 63, 64.
NoTE.—These prophecies were literally fulfilled, and for centuries the
exact site of the Babylonian metropolis was not definitely known.
Spiritual Babylon
7.
Repeat the second angel's message. Rev. 14:8.
8.
What parallels are observed between ancient Babylon and
the Babylon (Rome) of New Testament prophecy?
ANSWER:
"Babylon had been and was the Queen of the East in the age
of the Hebrew prophets; and Rome was the Mistress of the West when St.
John wrote. Babylon was called the Golden City, the glory of kingdoms, the
beauty of the Chaldees' excellency. She claimed eternity and universal
supremacy. . . . In these respects also, Babylon was imitated by Rome. She
also called herself the Golden City, the Eternal City. Again: the king of Baby-
lon was the rod of God's anger, and the staff of His indignation against
Jerusalem for its rebellion against Him. Babylon was employed by God to
punish the sins of Sion, and to lay her walls in the dust. So, in St. John's own
[
age, the imperial legions of Rome had been sent by God to chastise the
guilty city which had crucified His beloved Son."—Christopher Wordsworth,
Union With Rome,
pages 6-8.
9.
Mention some pagan doctrines of ancient Babylon that were
adopted by modern Babylon.
ANSWER: The adoration of idols.
The worship of the dead, or saint worship.
Belief in the immortality of the soul. '
The concept of an abode of bliss for disembodied spirits.
The doctrine of eternal torment.
Penance instead of repentance.
Salvation by works.
The substitution of Sunday for the Bible Sabbath.
10.
What significant titles are applied to this apostate church?
Rev. 17:5.
Norn.—"Babylon is said to be 'the
mother
of harlots.' By her
daughters
must be symbolized churches that cling to her doctrines and traditions, and
follow her example of sacrificing the truth and the approval of God, in order
to form an unlawful alliance with the world."—The
Great Controversy,
pages
382,383.
Rejection, Apostasy, Downfall
11.
At what time did the proclamation of the second angel's
message begin?
ANSWER: "The second angel's message of Revelation 14 was first preached
in the summer of 1844. . . . The churches then experienced a moral fall, in
consequence of their refusal of the light of the advent message; but that fall
was not complete. As they have continued to reject the special truths for
this time, they have fallen lower and lower. . . . But the work of apostasy
has not yet reached its culmination."—The
Great Controversy,
page 389.
"Not until this condition shall be reached, and the union of the church
with the world shall be fully accomplished throughout Christendom, will the
fall of Babylon be complete."—/bid., page 390.
12.
According to the prophecy what would Babylon impel the
nations of earth to drink? Rev. 14:8, last part.
Nornz—Every fundamental pillar of Christianity is being repudiated; and
the waning faith of multitudes appears in striking fulfillment of the prophecies
of 2 Timothy 3:1-5 and 2 Peter 3:3-6.
13.
To those who surrender every worldly tie and consecrate
themselves wholly to Christ, what promise is given? 2 Cor. 6:17, 18.
NorE.—"All who consecrate soul, body, and spirit, to God will be con-
stantly receiving a new endowment of physical and mental power. The
C
173
inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. . . Through co-
operation with Christ they are complete in Him, and in their human weak-
ness they are enabled to do the deeds of Omnipotence."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 827.
Lesson 7, for November 12, 1949
The Third Angel's Message
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Rev. 14:9-16; 15:2-4.
MEMORY VERSE: "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep
the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Rev. 14:12.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 449, 450, 603-612
(new
ed.,
pp.
512, 513, 681-691) ; "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation,"
pages
662-
679; "Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 338-345; "The Story of the Seer of Patinas,"
pages 260-265.
AIM: To study the threefold message and its eternal consequences.
"The
Beast," "His Image," and "His Mark"
1.
What did the prophet behold following the first and second
angels in close succession? How did the angel deliver his message?
Rev. 14:9, first clause.
2.
Against what rival worship is this message directed? Rev.
14:9, second clause.
3.
What constitutes "the mark of the beast"? Rev. 14:9, last
clause.
NoTE.—Said Bishop Eusebius of the fourth century: "All things whatso-
ever that it was duty
to
do on the Sabbath, these we have transferred to the
Lord's day [as they had erroneously begun to call
Sunday]."—Commentary
on the Psalms.
An .authorized Roman Catholic catechism states the following:
"Q. How prove you that the Church hath power to command feasts and
holydays?
"A. By the very act of changing the sabbath into
Sunday,
which Protes-
tants allow of."
—
Henry Tuberville,
An Abridgment of the Christian Doctrine,
page 58.
From these authentic statements by Catholic writers it is clear that "the
mark of the beast" is the acceptance of the false and counterfeit sabbath
when enforced by the civil law in clear opposition to God's law.
The Signet of Loyalty Versus the Mark of Apostasy
4.
In contrast to "the mark of the beast," what sign, or seal,
distinguishes the commandment-keeping people of God? Ex. 31:
13, 17.
[18]
NoTs.—In creation and redemption (re-creation) the Sabbath of the
fourth commandment stands as God's everlasting sign. The same omnipotent
power that creates a world is required to create a clean heart and transform
the life.
5.
Where is the seal of God placed? Rev. 7:3; 14:1.
No:mt.—The seal of God is placed only in the foreheads of completely
victorious Christians; while the "mark" of apostasy may appear in the
forehead (the seat of the mind), or in the "hand," which is a symbol of
service or passive submission.
"In every case the great decision is to be made whether we shall receive
the mark of the beast or his image, or the seal of the living God. And now,
when we are on the borders of the eternal world, what can be of so much
value to us as to be found loyal and true to the God of heaven
?"—Testi-
monies for the Church,
vol. 6, p. 130.
6.
When especially will the mark of the beast be enforced?
ANSWER:
"As men then reject the institutichn'which God has declared to be
the sign of His authority, and honor in its stead that which Rome has chosen
as the token of her supremacy, they will thereby accept the sign of allegiance
to Rome—`the mark of the beast.' And it is not until the issue is thus plainly
set before the people, and they are brought to choose between the command-
ments of God and the commandments of men, that those who continue in
transgression will receive 'the mark of the beast.'
"—The Great Controversy,
page 449.
7.
What sore punishment will be inflicted upon those who
bear 'the mark of apostasy? Rev. 14:10, 11.
NoTE.—"The most fearful threatening ever addressed to mortals is con-
tained in the third angel's message. That must be a terrible sin which calls
down the wrath of God unmingled with mercy. Men are not to be left in
darkness concerning this important matter; the warning against this sin is to
be given to the world before the visitation of God's judgments, that all may
know why they are to be inflicted, and have opportunity to escape them."—
The Great Controversy,
pages 449, 450.
The word "forever," from the Greek
aion,
is translated by G. Abbott-
Smith in a
Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament
as:
"A space of time,
as, a lifetime, generation, period of history, an indefinitely long period." In
harmony with the consistent teaching of Scripture we know that this "period"
of punishment will be very brief. See Malachi 4:1.
The Final Warning
8.
In connection with the third angel's message, what other
communication is heralded to the peoples of earth? Rev. 18:1-4.
9.
Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, how is the final mes-
sage to be carried? Matt. 24:14.
1
19
1
Crisis and Victory
10.
Throughout the ages what has been the test of man's loyalty?
Ex. 31:16, 17; Ezek. 20:19, 20.
N'oTE.—"While the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with
the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal
of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true
Sabbath, in obedience to God's law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator.
While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, re-
ceive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of allegiance to
divine authority, receive the seal of God."—The
Great Controversy,
page 605.
11.
Concerning those who stand the test of the crisis hour, what
testimonial is given? Rev. 14:12.
12.
What benediction is pronounced upon God's faithful wit-
nesses who fall asleep at their posts? Rev. 14:13.
13.
Following the proclamation of these three crisis messages,
what supreme and glorious event occurs? Rev. 14:14-16.
14.
Where is the victorious company of the redeemed next seen,
and what anthem do they sing? Rev. 15:2, 3.
Lesson
8, for November 19, 1949
The Testimony of Jesus in the Remnant Church
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Rev. 12:17; 14:12; 19:10; 10:11.
MEMORY VERSE: "That in everything ye are enriched by Him, in all utter-
ance, and in all knowledge; even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: so
that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Cor. 1:5-7.
STUDY HELPS: "The Abiding Gift of Prophecy," by A. G. Daniells, pages 253-
378; "The Spirit of Prophecy in the Advent Movement," by W. A. Spicer; "The
Testimony of Jesus," by F. M. Wilcox; "The Gift of Prophecy," by C. B. Haynes.
AIM: To appreciate more fully the important place and influence of the prophetic
gift in the development of the threefold message of Revelation 14:6-12.
Attack on the Remnant
1.
According to the prophecy of John the revelator, against
whom would the enmity of Satan be especially directed? What are
the distinguishing characteristics of this remnant? Rev. 12:17.
2.
As the third angel's message closes, how are these uncommon
and unique features of God's people again emphasized? Rev. 14:12.
[ 20 ]
NoTt.—"They the remnant] will turn front every idol that binds then'
to earth, and will 'worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea,
and the fountains of waters.' They will free themselves from every entangle-
ment, and will stand before the world as monuments of God's mercy.
Obedient to the divine requirements, they will be recognized by angels and
by men as those that have kept 'the commandments of God, and the faith
of
Jesus.'
"—Prophets and Kings,
pages 299, 300.
3.
How is "the testimony of Jesus" defined? Rev. 19:10. Com-
pare Rev. 22:9.
A
Legacy for the Gospel Dispensation
4.
When Christ ascended to His Father, what legacy was be-
queathed to His church? Eph.
4:8,
11, 12.
5.
For how long a period were these gifts to remain in the
church? Eph. 4:13; 1 Cor. 13:8-10.
A
Far-Reaching Commission
6.
In the great commission to His apostles, what divine cre-
dentials •of authority were conferred upon them? Mark 16:15-18.
NoTE.—"Campbell's translation says, 'These miraculous powers shall attend
the believers.' The gifts were not conn
ed to the apostles, but extended to
the believers. Who will have them? Those that believe. How long? There
is no limitation; the promise runs parallel with the great commission to
preach the gospel, and reaches the last believer."—Early
Writings,
page 134.
7.
Just prior to "the great and terrible day of the Lord," what
special outpouring of the Spirit was foretold by the prophet Joel?
Joel 2:28-31.
8.
What partial fulfillment of this prophecy occurred
in
New
Testament times? Acts 2:1-4, 16-18.
9.
What expressions in the prophecy indicate an even greater
fulfillment in the last days? Joel 2:23, 28-32; Acts 2:16-20.
NOTE.—"The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was 'the
former rain,' and glorious was the result. But the latter rain will be more
abundant."—Testimonies for the Church,
vol. 8, p. 21.
10.
When the testimony of Christ was confirmed in the church
at Corinth, what was the result? What should God's waiting
church confidently expect? 1 Cor. 1:5-8.
[zit
Lesson 9, for November 26, 1949
The Seven Last Plagues
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 15 and 16.
MEMORY VERSE: "At that time shall Michael stand up, the great Prince which
standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as
never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people
shall be delivered, everyone that shall be found written in the book." Dan. 12:1.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 613-634 (new ed., pp. 693-
715) ; "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 681-705; "Beacon Lights
of Prophecy," pages 365-377; "The Story of the Seer of Patmos," pages 266-288.
AIM: To behold in the seven last plagues the logical and inevitable consequences
of sin; also to reveal that these judgments are not inconsistent with the love message
of John 3:16.
"His Strange Act" (Isa. 28:21)
1.
What ominous warning is issued to those who reject the third
angel's message? Rev. 14:10. Compare Rev. 15:1.
2.
Before God performs "His strange act," what is to occur in
the heavenly temple, or sanctuary? Rev. 15:6-8. Compare Isa.
59:16.
NoTE.—"When Christ ceases His intercession in the sanctuary, the un-
mingled wrath threatened against those who worship the beast and his
image and receive his mark, will be poured out. The plagues upon Egypt
when God was about to deliver Israel, were similar in character to those more
terrible and extensive judgments which are to fall upon the world just before
the final deliverance of God's people."—The
Great Controversy,
pages 627,
628.
3.
What plague follows as the first of the seven angels pours his
vial. upon the earth? Rev. 16:1, 2.
NorE.—By reference also to verses 10, 13, 19 it will be observed how this
series of plagues is especially directed against the false worshipers of the beast
and his image.
4.
What just and fitting penalty is inflicted by the second and
third plagues? Rev. 16:3-6.
NOTE.—It
should be understood that "these plagues are not universal, or
the inhabitants of the earth would be wholly cut off. Yet they will be the
most awful scourges that have ever been known to mortals."—The Great
Controversy,
pages 628, 629.
5.
In the midst of these calamities, what voices are heard, and
what do they acknowledge? Rev. 16:5, 7. Compare Ezek. 33:11. ,
[ 23 ]
NOTE.—"To our merciful God the act of punishment is a strange act. . . .
The severity of the retribution awaiting the transgressor may be judged by
the Lord's reluctance to execute justice. . . . Terrible as these inflictions
are, God's justice stands fully vindicated."—The
Great Controversy,
pages
627, 628.
6.
Upon what was the fourth vial poured, and with what
result? Rev. 16:8.
7.
What will be the attitude of earth's inhabitants as the plagues
fall? Rev. 16:9, 11, 21, last part.
8.
What will be the nature of the fifth plague, and what will be
the target of attack? Rev. 16:10.
The Time of Jacob's Trouble
9.
Under the sixth plague what threefold apostasy develops to
deceive the world? Rev. 16:12-14, first part.
NOTE.—The
dragon represents paganism; the beast, the papacy; and the
false p. )phet, apostate Protestantism. Each of these will succumb to the be-
witching power of miracle-working demons.
"The spirits of devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the
whole world, to fasten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with
Satan in his last struggle against the government of heaven."—The
Great
Controversy,
page 624.
"The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction
and distress described by the prophet as the time of Jacob's trouble."—Ibid.,
page 616. See Jer. 30:5-7.
10.
During this "time of Jacob's trouble," how will God's chil-
dren be shielded? Ps. 91:1-8.
NoTE.—"The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while
persecuted and distressed, while they endure privation, and suffer for want of
food, they will not be left to perish. That God who cared for Elijah, will not
pass by one of His self-sacrificing children."—The
Great Controversy,
page
629.
11.
Toward what climax will the spirits of demons drive the
world? Rev. 16:14, 16; compare Jer. 25:32, 33.
12.
As the seventh angel empties his vial into the air, what ter-
rifying series of events will follow? Rev. 16:17-21.
NoTE,—The angels of destruction have completed their task, and the
solemn announcement peals forth: "It is done."
"That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. . . . The whole earth
heaves and swells like the waves of the sea. Its surface is breaking up. Its
[ 24 ]
very foundations seem to be giving way. Mountain chains are sinking.
Inhabited islands disappear. The seaports that have become like Sodom for
wickedness, are swallowed up by the angry waters. . . . Great hailstones,
every one 'about the weight of a talent,' are doing their work of destruction.
The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. The lordly palaces, upon which
the world's great men have lavished their wealth in order to glorify them-
selves, are crumbling to ruin before their eyes. Prison walls are rent asunder,
and God's people, who have been held in bondage for their faith, are set
free."—The
Great Controversy,
page 637.
13. What words of holy trust will bring comfort and encour-
agement for the crisis hour? Ps. 46:1-3.
NoTE.—Glorious will be the deliverance of the "little flock." "Their
faces, so lately pale, anxious, and haggard, are now aglow with wonder, faith,
and love. Their voices rise in triumphant song: 'God is our refuge and
strength, a very present help in trouble.'
"—The Great Controversy,
page 639.
Lesson 10, for December 3, 1949
The Sins and the Doom of Spiritual Babylon
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 17 and 18.
MEMORY VERSE: "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall
overcome them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with
Him are called, and chosen, and faithful." Rev. 17:14.
STUDY HELPS: "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 707-729;
"The Story of the Seer of Patmos," pages 289-313; "The Wine of Roman Babylon,"
by Mary E. Walsh.
AIM: To vividly sense the eternal truth that the seed sowing of an individual, a
nation, or a church will bring an inevitable harvest "after his kind."
The Woman and the Scarlet-Colored Beast
1.
With an angel messenger as his guide, what did the prophet
John behold? Rev. 17:3.
NoTE.—The book of Revelation features two women: one, representing
the pure gospel church, clothed with the sun (Rev. 12:1) ; the other, a
symbol of the apostate church which compromised with paganism and
persecuted God's commandment-keeping people.
2.
Where was the woman seated, and how is the beast described?
Rev. 17:3.
NoTE.—Scarlet color is used as a symbol of sin. Isa. 1:18. The beast also
had "seven heads and ten horns," which identify it with the dragon of Rev-
elation 12:3 and the leopard beast of Revelation 13:1. Both of those, as we
have learned, are symbols primarily of Satan and secondarily of spiritual Baby-
lon, or Rome, which was the agency through which Satan carried on his war-
fare against God's people. Both phases of Rome, pagan and papal, are like-
wise symbolized by the little horn of Daniel 8.
23
3.
What is further stated regarding the seven heads? Rev. 17:9,
10, first part.
NOTE.—The
term "mountain" is used in the Scripture to symbolize a
nation. Jer. 51:25. In order that there may be no misunderstanding, how-
ever, the prophet gives also the literal meaning; they are "seven kings," or
kingdoms, or powers that throughout history oppose and oppress the people
of God. These may be listed as Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia,
Greece, and Rome—both pagan and papal. In the days of the prophet John
the first five of these had fallen. The sixth, or the Roman Empire, then
ruled the world.
4.
What is said regarding the seventh head, or kingdom, and
its duration? Rev. 17:10.
5.
How is the brief operation of Satan's warfare against the
remnant church described? Rev. 17:12-14, 17.
NoTe.—Those suffering persecution under Rome, prior to the sixth seal,
were represented as crying: "How long,
.0 Lord!" In contrast to the centuries
of pagan and papal persecution, the final warfare against the saints is here
spoken of as "a short space," or "one hour." During this time the "ten kings"
of earth are united under the leadership of "the beast," or Satan, in declaring
war against God in the person of His remnant church. Read
The Great Con-
troversy,
pages 624-626 (new ed., pp. 705, 706).
6.
What is said of the "eighth," or final, phase of the beast? Rev.
17:8, 11.
NOTE.—Both the "dragon" (Rev. 20:1-10) and the "beast" were seen in
the "bottomless pit." Both were to come up out of the pit and go into
"perdition," or "the lake of fire." The eighth head, which is "of the seven,"
therefore fitly represents the final attempt of Satan leading the vast host of
the resurrected wicked of all mankind against the city of God.
The "Mother" and Her Daughters
7.
In the vision of the woman seated upon the leopard beast,
how was she clothed? Rev. 17:4.
8.
What names were seen on the forehead of the woman? Rev.
17:5.
9.
According to the prophecy, how would she deport herself
with the princes and peoples of earth? Rev. 17:2.
NOTE.—"It requires humility to be a follower of the meek and lowly One.
But this church became weary of her self-denial, and went after other lovers,
[26
7
who would give her the material things of life: dress, tables of luxury, social
standing, political eminence, and finally the highest position—that of a
crowned queen with a royal throne."—Mary E. Walsh,
The Wine of Roman
Babylon,
page 12.
10.
As her power and position became securely established, what
attitude would she assume toward kings and nations? Rev. 17:18.
NoTE.—In the early centuries of our era the church sought relief from
persecution. When this was achieved, she welcomed fellowship with the state
and courted its favors. Gradually the church grew into a great spiritual
empire. Kings and princes were considered as mere vassals of the Roman
pontiff, and "Rome was once more the mistress of the world."
11.
With what did "the woman" (the church) become intoxi-
cated? Rev. 17:6.
NoTE.—"Under these maxims Rome has always acted. What a long roll
of bloody persecutions is her record! The extirpation of the Albigenses, the
massacre of the Waldenses, the martyrdoms of the Lollards, the slaughter of
the Bohemians, the burning of Huss, Jerome, Savonarola, Frith, Tyndale,
Ridley, Hooper, Cranmer, Latimer, and thousands of others as godly and
faithful as they, have been her acts; the demoniacal cruelties of the Inquisition
were invented by her mind and inflicted by her hand—that Inquisition which.
was for centuries the mighty instrument of her warfare against devoted men
and women whose crime was only this, that they 'kept the commandments of
God and the faith of Jesus.' "—H. Grattan Guinness,
Key to the Apocalypse,
pages 91, 92.
The Wine Cup and the Downfall
12.
What did the prophet declare that Babylon would become
in her fallen condition? Rev. 18:2.
NoTE.—Following her complete overthrow, ancient Babylon by the
Euphrates became the haunt of "wild beasts," "owls," "satyrs," and "doleful
creatures." In like manner spiritual Babylon was to become the "habitation"
of "every foul spirit" and corrupt doctrine.
To mention a few of these, in addition to those in lesson 6:
Tradition is exalted above the Bible.
Peter is said to hold the keys of heaven and to constitute the rock on
which the church is built.
The Virgin Mary is presented as the "mediatress" between God and
man.
Penance is required as an expiation for sin,
Infant baptism is practiced as an essential to salvation.
Prayer to the saints is commanded as a means of grace and assistance.
Confession to a priest is a requisite for faithful church fellowship.
In celebrating the idolatrous mass, mutitudes worship the "wafer god,"
and the priest is extolled as "the creator of the Creator."
The erroneous teaching of man's natural immortality becomes the
basis for the terrorizing belief in Hades and eternal torment.
[
27
]
13.
To what extent have the peoples of earth imbibed the wine
of Babylon? Rev. 18:3.
14.
As the wine cup of Babylon fills to overflowing, and her
sins reach to heaven, what punishment will overwhelm her? -Rev.
18:6-10, 15-18, 21.
Lesson 11,
for December 10,
1949
The King of Kings and the Marriage Supper
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Rev. 19:1-21; Matt. 22:1-14; Luke 14:16-24.
MEMORY VERSE: "He saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called
unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true say-
ings of God." Rev. 19:9.
STUDY HELPS: "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 731-737;
"The Story of the Seer of Patmos," pages 314-323; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages
307-319 (new ed., pp. 313-325).
AIM: To visualize the militant array of the forces of heaven as the "armory" is
opened and the weapons of indignation are brought forth (Jer. 50:25) in punishment
of the finally impenitent, and the rejoicing of the hosts of heaven and the ransomed of
the Lord as they anticipate the marriage supper of the Lamb.
The Armies of Heaven
1.
In a vision presented to the prophet of Patmos, what militant
scene is introduced? Rev. 19:11, 14.
2.
How is Christ's appearance described, and on what mission
does He proceed? Rev. 19:12, 15. Compare Rev. 1:14.
NoTE.—"For the first time in all ages, Christ goes from heaven
as a
warrior, clad with helmet and sword; for the first time, He comes to rule
with a rod of iron. For six thousand years He has been the gentlest of the
gentle. He is the shepherd that carries the lambs in His bosom. . . . But
when He comes at the end of the time, to meet the armies of earth that are in
battle array on the plains of Armageddon, His eyes flash flames of fire, which
burn through the souls of men; and out of His mouth goeth a sharp sword,
and with it He smites the nations."—The
Story of the Seer of Patmos,
pages
320, 321.
3.
What is the significance of the "vesture dipped in blood"?
Rev. 19:13 (first part); Isa. 63:1-4.
NoTE.—In the Garden of Gethsemane, Christ "accepts His baptism of
blood, that through Him perishing millions may gain everlasting life. . . .
The Saviour trod the wine press alone, and of the people there was none with
Him."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 693.
4.
As Christ advances earthward, what names does He bear?
Rev. 19:13 (last part), 16.
[ 28 ]
The Decisive Conflict
5.
What vast host is marshaled to withstand "the armies of the
sky"? Rev. 19:19.
6.
What will be the inevitable result of this conflict? Rev. 19:17,
18; Jer. 25:31-33.
7.
Who are specifically mentioned as among the vanquished?
Rev. 19:20.
8.
By what means are multitudes of the finally impenitent slain?
Rev. 19:21; 2 Thess. 2:8; Ps. 50:3.
The Chorus of Victory
9.
Following the second coming of Christ, the death of the
wicked, and the gathering of the righteous, what glad song of
triumph rings throughout the courts of heaven? Rev. 19:1, 6.
10.
In this celestial jubilee how do the elders and "living
creatures" participate? Rev. 19:4.
Nozn.—The twenty-four elders once lived upon this earth. For long
centuries they have been associated with our great High Priest in His ministry
in the sanctuary above. Revelation 5:8-10. They are intensely interested in
salvation's plan, and in that glorious hour of victory they unite in the hal-
lelujah chorus. The term, "Alleluia," or "Hallelujah," means "Praise ye
Jehovah."
The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
11.
What impending event is the occasion for this rejoicing?
Rev. 19:7.
12.
In a later vision given to John, how is the wife, or bride,
identified? Rev. 21:2, 9, 10.
NoTz.—"Clearly, then, the bride represents the Holy City. . . . In the
Revelation the people of God are said to be the guests at the marriage supper.
If
guests,
they cannot be represented also as the
bride.
Christ, as stated by the
prophet Daniel, will receive from the Ancient of Days in heaven, 'dominion,
and glory, and a kingdom;' He will receive the New Jerusalem, the capital of
His kingdom, 'prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.' Having re-
ceived the kingdom, He will come in His glory, as King of kings and Lord of
lords, for the redemption of His people, who are to 'sit down with Abraham,
and Isaac, and Jacob,' at His table in His kingdom, to partake of the marriage
supper of the Lamb."—The
Great Controversy,
page 427.
(29]
13.
How is the bride attired for the royal wedding, and, what
blessing is bestowed on the guests? Rev. 19:8.
NOTE.—With
its glorified inhabitants the city appears in resplendent
costume. "The goodly apparel of this city, so to speak, consists of the hosts
of the redeemed and immortal ones who walk its golden streets."—The
Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation,
pages 733, 734.
"To the church it is given 'that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean
and white,' not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.' . . . No fig-leaf
garment, no worldly citizen dress, can be worn by those who sit down with
Christ and angels at the marriage supper of the
Lamb."—Christ's Object
Lessons,
pages 310, 311.
•
14.
What earnest royal invitation is now extended? Luke 14:17.
NOTE.—"Soon we heard His lovely voice again, saying, 'Come, My peo-
ple, you have come out of great tribulation, and done My will; suffered for
Me; come in to supper, for I will gird Myself, and serve you.' We shouted,
`Alleluia! glory !' and entered into the city. And I saw a table of pure
silver; it was many miles in length, yet our eyes could extend over it. I saw
the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes,
and many other kinds of fruit. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He
said, 'Not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land go back to earth no
more. But in a little while, if faithful, you shall both eat of the fruit of the
tree of life and drink of the water of the fountain.'
"—Early Writings,
pages
19, 20.
Lesson 12, for
December
17, 1949
The Millennium
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Rev. 20:1-15.
MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrec-
tion: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of
Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years." Rev. 20:6.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 657-673 (new ed., pp. 739-
756) ; "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 739-753; "Beacon Lights
of Prophecy," pages 391-400; ' The Story of the Seer of Patnios," pages 324-337.
AIM: To obtain a clear, vivid, mental picture of the momentous events that mark
the second coming of Christ, the millennium, and the climax of the agelong controversy
at the close of that period.
The term "millennium" does not occur in the Bible. It is derived from two Latin
words, "mille," meaning "thousand," and "annus," signifying "year." The thousand-
year period is mentioned six times in the Scriptures, all of which are in the twentieth
chapter of Revelation.
Events Marking the Commencement of the Millennium
L What informative statement did Christ give concerning the
resurrection of the dead? John 5:28, 29.
[ 30 ]
2.
Who only will have part in the first resurrection? Rev. 20:6
(first part); 1 Thess. 4:16.
3.
At the second coming of Christ to what place are the right-
eous transported? 1 Thess. 4:17; John 14:1-3.
4.
What then becomes of the wicked who witness His glorious
appearing? 2 Thess. 1:8, 9; 2:8.
NOTE.—Left without a shelter in that fateful hour, the finally impenitent
are unable to endure the celestial glory that suddenly bursts upon the world.
5.
To what chaotic state is the earth reduced? Jer. 4:23-27; Isa.
24:1, 3; Rev. 20:1, A.R.V.
NoTE.—The term "abyss," or "bottomless pit," here mentioned, is the
Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word occurring in the phrase, "Darkness
was upon the face of the deep [abyss]." Gen. 1:2. In the beginning "the
earth was without form, and void;" and the prophet Jeremiah uses the same
expression to describe the emptiness and desolation of our planet during the
one-thousand-year period.
"The ruins of cities and villages destroyed by the earthquake, uprooted
trees, ragged rocks thrown out by the sea or torn out of the earth itself, are
scattered over its surface, while vast caverns mark the spot where the
mountains have been rent from their foundations."—The
Great Controversy,
page 657.
Conditions During the Thousand Years
6.
Since all of the righteous are translated to heaven, and all
the wicked consumed, what change then occurs in Satan's status
and career of activity? Rev. 20:1, 2.
NoTE.—"The energy of the seer's language is remarkable. Satan is 'seized,'
next `chained;' then 'cast into the abyss,' after that 'shut up,' and finally
`sealed.' "—Moorehead,
Studies in the Book of Revelation,
page 133.
"Limited to the earth, he will not have access to other worlds, to tempt
and annoy those who have never fallen. It is in this sense that he is bound:
there are none remaining, upon whom he can exercise his power. He is wholly
cut off from the work of deception and ruin which for so many centuries has
been his sole delight."—The
Great Controversy,
page 659.
Here in this vast uninhabited wilderness, the archenemy will have a thou-
sand years of enforced idleness to reflect upon the ruin which his rebellion
has wrought.
7.
During the millennium what honored position and task will
be
assigned to the righteous? Rev. 20:4, 6 (last part); 1 Cor. 6:2, 3.
[ 31 ]
NOTE.—"It is at this time that, as foretold by Paul, 'the saints shall judge
the world.' In union with Christ they judge the wicked, comparing their
acts with the statute book, the Bible, and deciding every case according to
the deeds done in the body. Then the portion which the wicked must suffer
is meted out, according to their works; and it is recorded against their names
in the book of death."—The
Great Controversy,
page 661.
The Close of the Millennium
8.
What event is to signalize the close of the one-thousand-year
period? Rev. 21:2; Zech. 14:4, 9.
NOTE.—"At the close of the thousand years, Christ again returns to the
earth. . . . As the New Jerusalem, in its dazzling splendor, comes down out
of heaven, it rests upon the place purified and made ready to receive it, and
Christ, with His people and the angels, enters the Holy
City."—The Great
Controversy,
pages 662, 663.
9.
What other notable occurrence is to take place at that time?
Rev. 20:5, first part.
NOTE.-"At
the close of the thousand years the second resurrection will
take place." "As the wicked went into their graves, so they come forth, with
the same enmity to Christ, and the same spirit of rebellion. They are to have
no new probation, in which to remedy the defects of their past lives. Nothing
would be gained by this. A lifetime of transgression has not softened their
hearts. A second probation, were it given them, would be occupied as was the
first, in evading the requirements of God and exciting rebellion against Him."
—The Great Controversy,
pages 661, 662.
10.
As a result of the resurrection of the wicked, how is Satan's
situation altered? Rev. 20:7, 3, last part.
11.
In what way will he utilize this opportunity? Rev. 20:8.
NoTE.—"Now Satan prepares for a last mighty struggle for the supremacy.
. . . He will marshal all the armies of the lost under his banner. . . . He
represents himself to his deluded subjects as a redeemer, assuring them that
his power has brought them forth from their graves, and that he is about to
rescue them from the most cruel tyranny. . . . He proposes to lead them
against the camp of the saints, and to take possession of the city of God.
With fiendish exultation he points to the unnumbered millions who have
been raised from the dead, and declares that as their leader he is well able to
overthrow the city, and regain his throne and his kingdom."—The
Great
Controversy,
page 663.
12.
What final assault will the satanic hosts launch against
Christ and His people? Rev. 20:9, first part.
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NoTE,—"With all the facts of the great controversy in view, the whole
universe, both loyal and rebellious, with one accord declare, 'Just and true are
Thy ways, Thou King of saints.'
"—The Great Controversy,
page 671.
13.
By what means will sin and sinners be eradicated from the
earth? Rev. 20:9 (last part), 10.
Nora.—"Some are destroyed as in a moment, while others suffer many
days. All are punished 'according to their deeds.' . . . In the cleansing
flames the wicked are at last destroyed, root and branch,—Satan the root,
his followers the branches."—The
Great Controversy,
page 673.
14.
What is this punishment called, and how completely are the
results of sin to be obliterated? Rev. 20:14, 15.
Lesson 13, for December 24, 1949
The New Earth and Its Inhabitants
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 21.
MEMORY VERSE: "I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven
and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea." Rev. 21:1.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 674-678 (new ed., pp. 757-
762) ; "Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 401-410; "The Prophecies of Daniel and
the Revelation," pages 755-759; "The Story of the Seer of Patmos," pages 349-362.
AIM:
To envision the glorified new earth, its ideal conditions, its celestial beauties,
its infinite opportunities, and its redeemed inhabitants, to whom is given "the first
dominion." Micah
4 : 8.
The Divine Purpose to Be Consummated
1.
In the creation of this earth what was God's original plan?
Isa. 45:18.
NOTE.—"God
created the earth to be the abode of holy, happy beings. . . .
That purpose will be fulfilled, when, renewed by the power of God, and
freed from sin and sorrow, it shall become the eternal abode of the redeemed."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 67.
2.
By what tragic occurrence has the fulfillment of this purpose
been delayed? Rom. 5:12; 2 Peter 2:19.
[33
]
NoTE.—"The fall of man filled all heaven with sorrow. The world that
God had made was blighted with the curse of sin, and inhabited by beings
doomed to misery and death. There appeared no escape for those who had
transgressed the law. Angels ceased their songs of praise. Throughout the
heavenly courts there was mourning for the ruin that sin had wrought."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 63.
3.
By what supreme sacrifice is the restitution of all things to be
accomplished? Luke 19:10; Rom. 6:23; Acts 3:20, 21.
NorE.—Through disobedience the first Adam lost his purity, his beautiful
Eden home, and his life. Through obedience the second Adam (Christ)
restores all that was lost. Rom. 5:19 ; 6:23.
4.
Following the destruction of sin and sinners, what did the
prophet John behold? Rev. 21:1.
NoTE.—The Bible narrative begins with a new world (Gen. 1:1), and
closes with "a new heaven and a new earth." The first two chapters, of in-
ppiration describe the Eden that was lost; the last two reveal the Paradise to
be restored. The third chapter of the Sacred Volume tells of the tragic
entrance of sin and death; while the third chapter from its close narrates the
final exit of sin and all its results. The Great Book takes man from the
closed entrance of the lost estate and leaves him at the portals of his eternal
inheritance, which he enters in triumph.
"Thus the last chapters of the Bible declare the unity of the whole book,
by completing the design which has been developed in its pages, and disclosing
the result to which all preceding steps have tended."—J. G. Butler,
The Bible-
Work: The New Testament, vol. 2,
p. 776.
"All Things New" (Rev. 21:5)
5.
In what picturesque language does Peter describe the dis-
solution of the old and the emergence of the new? 2 Peter 3:10,
12, 13.
6.
.
To what Old Testament promise did the apostle evidently
refer? Isa. 65:17.
7. How is the surface and appearance of this old world to be
transformed? Isa. 35:1, 2.
NOTE.—A traveler of international repute tells of the balmy climate of
Lebanon; of the cool, sparkling water of spring and rivulet; of its varied
scenery, stately cedars, luxurious vegetation, beautiful flowers, delicious
fruits, and charming song birds. To him it is the most desirable location in
all the world. Inspiration speaks to us in language that we can appreciate.
With no more boundless oceans (Rev. 21:1, last clause), no more trackless
Saharas and inhospitable wastes, and with ideal food and climatic conditions,
the entire globe will become a Lebanon of beauty and delight.
[34]
8.
In what delightful occupations will the inhabitants of that
better country participate? Isa. 65:21, 22.
NoTE.—"There the grandest enterprises may be carried forward, the loft-
iest aspirations reached, the highest ambitions realized; and still there will
arise new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to com-
prehend, fresh objects to call forth the powers of mind and soul and body."—
The Great Controversy,
page 677.
9.
From what perils and dangers will the redeemed be forever
free? Ezek. 34:25; Isa. 11:6-9; 65:25.
10.
What conditions of physical health will prevail in that
celestial country? Isa. 33:24; 35:5, 6.
"Their God" and "His
People"
11.
What thrilling announcement was made by a voice from
heaven? Rev. 21:3.
NorE.—"The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be
not only ransomed but exalted. Our little world, under the curse of sin the
one dark blot in His glorious creation, will be honored above all other worlds
in the universe of God. Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in human-
ity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died,—here, when He
shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be with men, 'and He
will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall
be with them, and be their God.' And through endless ages as the redeemed
walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift,
—Immanuel, 'God with us.' "—The Desire of Ages,
page 26.
12.
How completely will the delights and happiness of the
future eclipse the heartaches and sorrows of the present? Rev. 21:4.
NorE.—"The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the
soul, shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with
holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the
faithful ones of all ages, . . . these help to constitute the happiness of the
redeemed."—The
Great Controversy,
page 677.
13.
What people, or companies, are to share in the captivating
joys of that grand home-coming? Rev. 14:1; 7:4, 9.
NorE.—There the redeemed will see as they are seen and know as they are
known, and how marvelous will be the association and fellowship!
"Heaven will be a commonwealth of living personalities, numberless,
peerless, sinless; gathered out of every people, and tongue, and kindred, and
nation of the earth; coming up from the moral battlefields of this world to
the mount of God."—J. G. Butler,
The Bible-Work: The New Testament,
vol. 2, p. 778.
[ 35]
14.
In what song will the multitudes of the saved unite? Rev.
14:2, 3; 15:3.
NcrrE.—Even the angels of heaven cannot participate in that song, for it
is a song of experience, a song of redemption, and a song of gratitude that
"will never die away into forgetful silence."
"All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God's re-
deemed. Unfettered by mortality, they wing their tireless flight to worlds afar,
—worlds that thrilled with sorrow at the spectacle of human woe, and rang
with songs of gladness at the tidings of a ransomed soul. With unutterable
delight the children of earth enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen
beings. They share the treasures of knowledge and understanding gained
through ages upon ages in contemplation of God's handiwork."—The
Great
Controversy,
page 677.
15.
What divine certificate of character does each of the re-
deemed possess? Rev. 14:5.
Lesson 14, for December 31, 1949
The New Earth Metropolis
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 21 and 22.
MEMORY VERSE: "Eye bath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into
the heart of man, the things which God bath prepared for them that love Him. But
God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea,
the deep things of God." 1 Cor. 2:9, 10.
STUDY HELPS: "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," pages 760-783;
"The Story of the Seer of Patmos," pages 338-348.
-
AIM: To survey by faith the "city foursquare."
The Object of Hope
1.
Throughout his eventful life what hope and longing inspired
the heart of Abraham? Heb. 11:10, 16.
2.
On the eve of His crucifixion what alluring promise did
Christ give to His disciples? John 14:2.
The New Jerusalem
3.
From his exile retreat on rocky Patmos what did the prophet
John behold? Rev. 21:2, 10.
Nom—God designed that old Jerusalem in Palestine should stand forever
(Jer. 17:25) ; but the conditions were unheeded, the divine precepts disobeyed,
and the city was at length destroyed.
[36
]
Yet here, on Mount Moriah, Abraham had offered Isaac; in this hallowed
locality King David reigned; here also the Prince of life was crucified; and
here the New Jerusalem will be located. Zech. 14:4. From sin and shame and
degradation to the glorious metropolis of the new earth—this is a thrilling
chapter in the story of redemption.
4.
What glowing pen picture of this city is given? Rev. 21:
11-13.
NorE,---The names of the twelve tribes on the city gates suggest that the
redeemed of all ages are considered as belonging to some one of the twelve
tribes. This belief is in full harmony with numerous New Testament texts in
which Christians are called Israel and are addressed as the twelve tribes. See
Rom. 2:28, 29; Eph. 2:12, 13; James 1:1, etc.
5.
What is said of the city wall and its foundations? Rev. 21:
14. Compare Matt. 19:28.
Nom.—The apostle John had suffered much "for the word of God, and
for the testimony of Jesus Christ." His name was "recorded on the books of
Rome as a criminal and an exile; what joy, then, must have come to him,
when he saw in heaven his name engraved on one of the foundations of the
city."—The Story of the Seer of Patmos,
page 345.
6.
What are the size and dimensions of the New Jerusalem?
Rev. 21:16, 17.
Nom.—According to the ancient method of measuring cities, the entire
circumference was included—twelve thousand furlongs. With eight furlongs
to the mile, this would equal 1,500 miles, or 375 miles on each side.
The length, breadth, and height "are equal," or
in proportion.
Reckoning
the cubit at eighteen inches in length, the height of the wall would approxi-
mate 216 feet. Or, if we use the cubit of the angel, twenty-two inches, the
height would be 264 feet.
7.
Of what material is the wall constructed, and with what are
the foundations adorned? Rev. 21 : 18-20.
NOTE.—A gifted author expressed, in the following language, his concept
of the glory of the scene:
" 'At the base is the crimson jasper, typical of the suffering and death of
the Saviour slain from the foundation of the world. Above this, is laid the
sapphire, like a blue flame of truth. In the pure white chalcedony is reflected
the purity of the Christ life. The emerald green, like the rainbow about the
throne, offers hope to those who rest upon the others. The sardonyx reflects
many colors, but above it, is the deep red sardius, covered by the chrysolite.
This is overlaid by the beautiful blue beryl, whose light mingles with the
blazing topaz in telling the story of joy and peace in the Lord. The eleventh
is the purple of royalty, crowned with the purity of the amethyst.' "—Quoted
in
The Story of the Seer of Patmos,
pages 344, 345.
[ 37 ]
13.
In the closing paragraph of inspiration what loving invita-
tion is extended to all? Rev. 22:17.
NOTE.
-"Come,
if you would inherit mansions where sickness, sorrow,
pain, and death can never enter. . . . Come, if you would sing the jubilee
song of millions, and share their joy. Come, if you would join the anthems
of the redeemed with their melodious harps, and know that your exile is
forever over, and this is your eternal home. . . . Come, if you would drink
from the pure fountain of celestial bliss, if you would shine as the stars forever
in the firmament of glory, if you would share in the unutterable rapture that
fills the triumphant hosts as they behold before them unending ages of glory
ever brightening and joys ever
new."-The Prophecies of Daniel and the Rev-
elation,
pages 778, 779.
14.
With what promise, prayer, and benediction does the seer
of Patmos conclude the message of Holy Writ? Rev. 22:20, 21.
NOTE.
-"We
must be there. We must bask in the forgiving smiles of God,
to whom we have become reconciled, and sin no more. We must have access
to that exhaustless fount of vitality, the fruit of the tree of life, and never
die. . . . We must drink from the life-giving fountain, and thirst nevermore.
. . . We must exchange the toilworn, dusty raiment of our pilgrimage for the
glorious vesture of immortality, and feel that sin and the curse can nevermore
pollute us. 0 day of rest and triumph, and every good, delay not thy dawn-
ing. Let the angels be quickly sent to gather the elect. Let the promise be
fulfilled which bears in its train these matchless glories.
'EVEN
so,
COME,
LORD JESUS.'
"-The
Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation,
pages 782, 783.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS FOR FIRST QUARTER
If you have not received a
Lesson Quarterly
for the first quarter of 1950,
in order to study the lesson daily, the following outline will be of help in
studying the first lesson:
The general topic is "Our Lord's Prayer." Lesson 1, for January 7, is
entitled, "God and Prayer." The memory verse is Hebrews 11:6, the principal
study helps,
The Des-ire of Ages,
pages 19-26;
Steps to Christ,
chapter, "The
Privilege of Prayer." Questions and texts are:
Ques. 1. 1 John 4:16.
Ques. 8. Matt.7:7, 8, 11.
Ques. 2. 1 John 3:1.
Ques. 9. 1 John 5:14, 15.
Ques. 3. Rom. 8:14, 15.
Ques. 10. Matt. 11:24.
Ques. 4. Matt. 26:41.
Ques. 11. Job 42:8-10.
Ques. 5. Ps. 5:2, 3 ; 55:17; 6:9. Ques. 12. Eph. 6:18, 19.
Ques. 6. Ex. 33:8-14.
Ques. 13. Rom. 8:26, 27.
Ques. 7. Ps. 66:18-20.
Ques. 14. 1 Thess. 5:17.
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THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
December 24, 1949—South American Division
Few people on earth are in greater need of medical help and health edu-
cation than are those in the tropical jungles of North Brazil. Five of our
medical launches now ply the great Amazon River and its tributaries in an
effort to give medical aid to the thousands along their banks. Something
more than launches is needed, however, for there must be established a medi-
cal center where young people can be trained to care for the sick in these
vast jungles, and where those who are afflicted by tropical diseases may be
cared for.
It is hoped that the overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering will
be sufficiently large to help meet this urgent need. A site has been secured
in Belem, the principal city on the Amazon, on which to erect a simple but
adequate hospital building which will accommodate some forty patients.
The overflow given to North Brazil in 1947 amounted to $31,733.47. We
should have a much larger overflow this quarter if we are to provide for
this hospital. At this season of the year when much is being spent on gifts
for others, will not every Sabbath school member make an especially liberal
offering in behalf of the sick and suffering in the vast Amazon River field
of North Brazil?
,a0;;Tep
145.A.